Analisis Makna Tekstual dan Struktur Melodi Lagu Populer Batak Toba Saat Penyerahan Ulos Hela pada Upacara Pernikahan Batak Toba di Kota Medan

Abstract

Ulos Hela is usually given by the bride’s parents to the couple.These three songs are always chosen to be sung before the Ulos Hela is presented to the bride and groom. Before presenting the Ulos Hela, the bride’s parents usually deliver advice and dedicate one of the songs, such as Burju Marsimatua, Gabe Maho Boru, or Boru Nabasa.To analyze the textual meaning in this study, the author uses Ferdinand de Saussure’s semiotic theory, focusing on denotative and connotative meanings. In addition, the songs Burju Marsimatua, Gabe Maho Boru, and Boru Nabasa contain advice and prayers with connotative meanings that reflect the social values of the Batak Toba community. The research techniques used are fieldwork and desk work as introduced by Bruno Nettl. The author applies a qualitative method through observation, interviews, and audio-video recording. The findings of this study indicate that the Ulos Hela ceremony is a crucial highlight of the Batak Toba wedding tradition, symbolizing parental love, blessings, and the transfer of responsibility from the bride’s parents to the groom’s family. The songs Burju Marsimatua, Gabe Maho Boru, and Boru Nabasa convey prayers, advice, and moral values that guide the newlyweds in building a harmonious household. The melodic analysis shows that all three songs use the strophic formula, are dominated by the 1P interval, and have a pendulous contour, creating a solemn atmosphere. This tradition serves as a medium for preserving cultural identity and instilling noble values for future generations.